That sounds tiring, especially when you’re already holding and comforting him. **You can work toward a calmer bedtime while continuing to rock or pat him.** His crying alone doesn’t tell us whether he’s itchy, overtired, not sleepy yet, or finding the transition difficult.

**Start with his physical comfort.** Eczema itching can interfere with sleep, so arrange a review with his pediatrician if it is still troublesome despite treatment. Follow his prescribed skin-care plan, include moisturiser in the evening routine, and avoid overheating or irritating clothing. Sleep disruption is a reason to reassess eczema treatment. [NHS eczema guidance](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/atopic-eczema/)

Try the following consistently over the next week or two:

1. **Make the last 30 minutes predictable.** Dim the lights, stop active play and screens, then use the same short sequence: skin care, pyjamas, teeth, one book, a song and cuddles. Start winding down about 30 minutes before he *usually falls asleep*, rather than spending a long time trying to make him sleep earlier. Once settling improves, move the routine earlier gradually if needed. [NHS bedtime guidance](https://www.nhs.uk/baby/health/sleep-and-young-children/)

2. **Offer a cuddle without making him stay still.** If “holding firm” means restraining him while he struggles, ease off. Support him securely, but let him change position. If he pushes away, try sitting beside his cot with a gentle hand or quiet voice. Some movement before sleep is okay; he doesn’t have to lie motionless to settle.

3. **Respond to escalating distress with a brief reset.** Pick him up if that helps, check for itching or discomfort, and offer a quiet cuddle before trying again. Keep the lights low and avoid restarting play. You can continue rocking him to sleep if that suits you—independent sleep does not have to be the immediate goal.

4. **Check the timing.** For several days, note naps, when the routine starts, when he actually falls asleep, and whether he scratches. If he’s already tearful and exhausted before bedtime, try starting 10–15 minutes earlier. If he’s happily active for a long time, bedtime or a late nap may need adjusting. Change one thing at a time.

Judge progress by whether he seems more relaxed and needs less effort to settle, rather than expecting no tears immediately.

Seek prompt medical advice if his eczema becomes painful, hot, swollen, blistered or oozing, particularly with fever. If bedtime distress persists after his skin is comfortable and the routine is consistent, ask his pediatrician to check for other sources of discomfort. [NHS guidance](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/atopic-eczema/)